Butlers Wharf, a simple but effective counterbalance system is used for checking the weight of boxes. The warehouse staff wear flat-caps while the office workers stand out in their bowlers. The two uniformed men in peaked caps appear to be security staff .c 1910.

A system of casual employment was operated in London docks whereby men would queue up to be taken on each day. This was unpopular but continued well into the 20th century. Large numbers were required when trade was good because almost all the work of moving and loading goods was done by hand. c1910.